> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://kero.chat/help/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Prepare your first message

> Learn when to use Direct Message or Templates to prepare your first SMS, WhatsApp or RCS message in Kero.

Once you've configured your messaging channel, the next step is to prepare a message.

Kero supports both individual messages and reusable message templates. The approach you choose depends on your messaging channel and what you want to send.

You don't need to create a Campaign or import contacts to get started.

## Choose how to prepare your message

> **Direct Message**
>
> Send an individual message to a recipient. This is a useful starting point when testing your messaging channel.

> **Templates**
>
> Create and manage reusable messages for individual communication and Campaigns. Templates also support channel fallback configuration where available.

## What does your messaging channel require?

| Channel | Preparing your message |
| - | - |
| SMS | You can compose a text message directly or use a reusable template. |
| WhatsApp Business | You can send permitted free-form messages within an open customer service window. Outside that window, you need an approved WhatsApp message template. |
| RCS for Business | Prepare a message using the supported RCS content and features. Testing is available on approved test devices before carrier launch. |

> [!NOTE]
>
> Your messaging channel must be configured for the type of message you want to send. Completing Agent setup does not necessarily mean the channel is approved for live customer messaging.

## Prepare a Direct Message

Direct Message is useful when you want to communicate with one recipient or test an individual message.

**1. Open Direct Message**

Sign in to [Kero](https://app.kero.chat) and navigate to **Direct Message**.

**2. Select your messaging channel**

Choose the configured channel you want to use.

Depending on the channel and message type, you may need to select an Agent or an approved template.

**3. Prepare your message**

Enter your recipient's mobile number and prepare the message content using the options available for your selected channel.

For WhatsApp Business, use an approved WhatsApp template when required.

**4. Check your message**

Review the recipient, selected channel, message content and any required template variables before sending.

## Prepare a reusable Template

Templates are useful when you want to reuse message content, personalise messages or configure fallback between supported messaging channels.

![Kero message template creation screen](https://mintcdn.com/kerochat/VVkllmT7uAJ46yHh/images/templates/rcs-new-message-template.png?fit=max\&auto=format\&n=VVkllmT7uAJ46yHh\&q=85\&s=2ea13dc13a69bd63eba0b6f76ae77501)

Kero supports message templates for:

* **SMS:** Text-based messages.
* **WhatsApp Business:** Messages based on approved WhatsApp templates, with variables where supported.
* **RCS for Business:** Rich messages, including supported cards, carousels and interactive elements.

> [!NOTE]
>
> **Channel fallback is configured in Kero Templates.**
>
> If you want Kero to use an alternative channel when the primary channel cannot be used, configure the supported fallback options when creating your Kero Template.
>
> Fallback is optional and requires the relevant messaging channels to be configured.

## What happens next?

Once you've prepared your message, the next step is to send a test message.

Testing helps you confirm that your selected channel, recipient details and message content work as expected before sending messages more widely.


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